HRC welcomes NZ sporting codes commitment to diversity and inclusion

HRC welcomes NZ sporting codes commitment to diversity and inclusion

May 31, 2016

The Human Rights Commission has welcomed today’s commitment to diversity and inclusion from the country’s major sporting organisations, led by New Zealand rugby.

“Today’s commitment from New Zealand’s leading sports codes sends a powerful message to all Kiwis that intolerance, racism and homophobia are not welcome on our sports fields and games,” said Race Relations Commissioner Dame Susan Devoy.

“It’s brilliant to see the sporting sector showing leadership in human rights, putting a stake in the ground and saying: there’s a problem, in fact there are lots of problems but we’re going to work together to solve it.”

“Dame Susan is right on the money with her statement. Sport and recreation is such an important part of how we are in Aotearoa New Zealand, and I totally support these formalised moves to eliminate prejudice and unfair discrimination, including for LGBTI people, from all levels of sport” he said.

“The right to be belong and participate is critical to wellbeing and these initiatives can only have a positive effect on New Zealanders.”

He also noted the positive moves by Super Rugby players last weekend, lacing up with rainbow laces in support of LGBTI people.

“We have seen high level players overseas champion LGBTI human rights issues such as David Pocock supporting marriage equality in Australia. It’s fantastic to see similar support developing amongst Kiwi players.”

The codes will be reporting back by the year end and the Commission is looking forward to seeing what progress they’ve made. #SportForEveryone